Reporting animal research: Explanation and elaboration for the ARRIVE guidelines 2.0

Genes involved in osteogenic differentiation induced by low‑intensity pulsed ultrasound in goldfish scales

The teleost scale is a unique calcified tissue that contains osteoclasts, osteoblasts, osteocytes and the bone matrix, similar to mammalian bone. Here, the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on osteoblasts and osteoclasts in goldfish scales were investigated. Scales were treated with LIPUS, which is equivalent to use under clinical conditions (30 mW/cm2 for 20 min), then cultured at 15˚C. Alkaline phosphatase activity, a marker of osteoblasts, or tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity, a marker of osteoclasts was measured. The gene expression profile was examined using RNA-sequencing. Gene network and biological function analyses were performed using the Ingenuity® Pathways Knowledge Base. A single exposure of LIPUS significantly increased ALP activity but did not affect TRAP activity. These data indicated that LIPUS induced osteoblastic activation in goldfish scales. Using RNA-sequencing, numerous genes that were significantly and differentially expressed 3, 6, and 24 h after LIPUS exposure were observed. Ingenuity® pathway analysis demonstrated that three gene networks, GN-3h, GN-6h, and GN-24h, were obtained from upregulated genes at 3, 6 and 24 h culture, respectively, and included several genes associated with osteoblast differentiation, such as protein kinase D1, prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2, TNFRSF11B (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 11b) and WNT3A (Wnt family member 3A). A significant upregulation of expression levels of these genes in scales treated with LIPUS was confirmed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. These results contribute to elucidating the molecular mechanisms of osteoblast activation induced by LIPUS.

Single-nucleotide polymorphism analysis accurately predicts multiple impairments in hippocampal activity and memory performance in a murine model of idiopathic autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprises alterations in brain anatomy and physiology that ultimately affect information processing and behavior. In most cases, autism is considered idiopathic, involving alterations in numerous genes whose functions are not extensively documented. We evaluated the C58/J mouse strain as an idiopathic model of ASD, emphasizing synaptic transmission as the basis of information processing. Through in silico analysis, we found that the C58/J strain carries single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) compared to the C57BL/6J control strain related to synaptic structure and LTP induction. These SNPs have human orthologs previously associated with ASD. We then assessed chemical potentiation (cLTP) in synaptosomes, the electrophysiological properties of hippocampal CA3 cells, and the induction of LTP in ex-vivo slices. An increased proportion of synaptosomes expressing the GluA1 subunit of AMPA receptor and Nrx1β in the membrane was found in the C57BL/6J control strain, but not in C58/J mice, after cLTP induction. Additionally, several electrophysiological properties of CA3 pyramidal cells and hippocampal communication were altered. Behaviorally, C58/J mice exhibited hyperactivity and subtle memory changes. Our results demonstrate that an idiopathic model of ASD exhibits alterations in hippocampal physiology from the cellular to the circuitry and behavioral levels.

Xanthohumol attenuates TXNIP-mediated renal tubular injury in vitro and in vivo diabetic models

Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), as a pivotal protein in the cellular stress response, plays a significant role in the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Consequently, therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting TXNIP may offer novel interventions for patients with DN. Our study is to explore the therapeutic potential of targeting TXNIP in mitigating renal tubular injury induced by hyperglycemia. Cell viability and apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) were evaluated using CCK-8, Annexin V/7-AAD, and TUNEL staining after exposure to normal glucose (NG; 5 mM), high glucose (HG; 30 mM), or treatment with TXNIP inhibitors (Xanthohumol, Xan). Furthermore, histochemical staining was utilized to assess the morphological changes in the kidney. Xan was determined to be a potential inhibitor of TXNIP due to its low binding energy value of - 7.433 kcal/mol. Both genetic inhibition of TXNIP using sh-RNA and pharmacological inhibition with Xan were found to reverse HG-induced RTEC apoptosis and inflammatory response. In diabetic mice, administration of Xan resulted in significant improvements in pathological features such as tubular atrophy, tubular injury score, and collagen deposition in the tubulointerstitium. Additionally, treatment with Xan effectively reduced the up-regulation of TXNIP protein expression caused by hyperglycemia. In conclusion, Xan, as a bioactive natural product, has been shown to attenuate hyperglycemia-induced renal tubular injury in both in vitro and in vivo models, potentially through the inhibition of TXNIP expression. Xan has the potential to serve as a therapeutic compound for the treatment of DN.

Evaluation of ovarian stiffness and its biological mechanism using shear wave elastography in polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder with various contributing factors. Shear wave elastography (SWE) is a contemporary noninvasive imaging technique that reports on the elasticity of tissues. This study aimed to evaluate ovarian stiffness in patients with PCOS using transvaginal SWE, and investigate the potential biological mechanisms underlying increased ovarian stiffness. Patients with PCOS and healthy controls underwent transvaginal 2D ultrasound and SWE to measure the number of follicles, ovarian volume, and ovarian elasticity. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify risk factors for PCOS. A rat model of PCOS was established to further investigate the biological basis of increased ovarian stiffness. Histological analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, transcriptomics, and proteomics were performed to assess alterations in fibrosis and basement membrane (BM) gene expression. The results demonstrated that patients with PCOS (n = 59) showed an increased number of follicles, ovarian volume, and SWE (mean and max) compared with controls (n = 56; P < 0.001). The number of follicles, ovarian volume, and SWE_mean were identified as independent risk factors for PCOS (P < 0.05). SWE_mean ≥ 12.5 kPa demonstrated an area under the curve of 0.816 for PCOS diagnosis and was positively correlated with AMH levels (r = 0.6776, P < 0.0001). In the rat model, increased ovarian stiffness was associated with significant fibrosis and altered expression of fibrosis-related markers. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed that BM gene alterations were correlated with ovarian stiffness, which was further validated using PCOS patient data from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. In conclusion, SWE is a valuable technique for diagnosing PCOS by detecting increased ovarian stiffness, which may be associated with alterations in the expression of BMs, thereby mediating ovarian fibrosis.

Mechanosensor YAP mediates bone remodeling via NF-κB p65 induced osteoclastogenesis during orthodontic tooth movement

BACKGROUND

Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a crucial mechanosensor involved in mechanotransduction, but its role in regulating mechanical force-induced bone remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is unclear. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between mechanotransduction and mechanical force-induced alveolar bone remodeling during OTM.

RESULTS

Our study confirms an asynchronous (temporal and spatial sequence) remodeling pattern of the alveolar bone under mechanical force during OTM. Both compression and tension activate osteoclasts recruiting to the alveolar bone, whereas no significant presence of osteoblasts in the alveolar bone at the early stages of bone remodeling. Specifically, applying different force magnitudes (10, 25, 50, 100 g) to rats' 1st molars affected OTM distance. Force-induced alveolar bone remodeling was characterized by osteoclastogenesis and YAP activation at compressive/tensile sites on day 1 of OTM. Notably, 25 g force triggered peak YAP expression and osteoclastic activity early on. Time-course analysis revealed two YAP activity peaks on day1 and 14, contrasting with one peak of type I collagen expression on day14. In addition, RNA-sequencing highlighted increased nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling, mineral absorption, and osteoclast differentiation at day-1 and 3. Moreover, gene expression analysis showed similar trends for NF-κB p65, YAP1, and TEA domain 1 (TEAD1) during this time. Furthermore, experiments on osteoclast cultures indicated YAP activation via large tumor suppressor (LATS) and TEAD under mechanical stimuli (compression/tension), promoting osteoclastogenesis by regulating NF-κB p65 and receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK). Inhibiting YAP with verteporfin delayed OTM by impairing force-induced osteoclastic activities in vivo and ex-vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that YAP mediates alveolar bone remodeling through NF-κB p65-induced osteoclastogenesis in an asynchronous remodeling pattern during OTM. Both compression and tension activate osteoclasts recruiting to the alveolar bone at early stages of bone remodeling, offering evidence for orthodontists as a reference.

Timing of standard chow exposure determines the variability of mouse phenotypic outcomes and gut microbiota profile

Standard chow diets influence reproducibility in animal model experiments because chows have different nutrient compositions, which can independently influence phenotypes. However, there is little evidence of the role of timing in the extent of variability caused by chow exposure. Here we measured the impact of different diets (5V5M, 5V0G, 2920X and 5058) and timing of exposure (adult exposure (AE), lifetime exposure (LE) and developmental exposure (DE)) on growth and development, metabolic health indicators and gut bacterial microbiota profiles across genetically identical C57BL/6J mice. Diet drove differences in macro- and micronutrient intake for all exposure models. AE had no effect on phenotypic outcomes. However, LE mice exhibited significant sex-dependent diet effects on growth, body weight and body composition. LE effects were mostly absent in the DE model, where mice were exposed to chow differences only from conception to weaning. Both AE and LE models exhibited similar diet-driven beta diversity profiles for the gut bacterial microbiota, with 5058 diet driving the most distinct profile. However, compared with AE, LE effects on beta diversity were sex dependent, and LE mice exhibited nine times more differentially abundant bacterial genera, the majority of which were inversely affected by 2920X and 5058 diets. Our findings demonstrate that LE to different chow diets has the greatest impact on the reproducibility of several experimental measures commonly used in preclinical mouse model studies. Importantly, weaning mice from different diets onto the same diet for maturation may be an effective way to reduce unwanted phenotypic variability among experimental models.

Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 as a potential therapeutic target to alleviate high glucose-induced podocyte apoptosis and hyperglycemia-induced renal injury in mice

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycemia is a risk factor for impaired renal function, including cellular metabolic disturbance, apoptosis, inflammation, and histologic lesion. This study aims to investigate the potential therapeutic targeting of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) in hyperglycemia-induced podocyte dysfunction and renal damage.

METHODS

Cell viability and apoptosis of podocytes were assessed through CCK-8 and TUNEL staining, respectively, following exposure to normal glucose (NG; 5 mM), high glucose (HG; 30 mM), or treatment with Cdk5 inhibitors (trans-resveratrol, myricetin, salvianolic acid A, and BML-259). Diabetic mice were established by intraperitoneal injection of freshly streptozotocin (STZ), which was given at a dose of 35 mg/kg in five successive injections. Additionally, histochemical staining was employed to evaluate the morphologic lesion of the kidney.

RESULTS

Cdk5 was found to be activated by HG stimulation both in vitro and in vivo. Notably, the inhibition of Cdk5 effectively mitigated the podocyte dysfunction induced by HG, including growth inhibition, membrane damage, and apoptosis. The compounds Trans-resveratrol, myricetin, salvianolic acid A, and BML-259 exhibited low binding energy values of -8.032 kcal/mol, -8.693 kcal/mol, -8.743 kcal/mol, and -10.952 kcal/mol, respectively, indicating strong and stable binding affinity between these candidates and Cdk5. The results of in vivo experimental analysis demonstrate that Cdk5 inhibitors, namely trans-resveratrol, myricetin, salvianolic acid A, and BML-259, confer protection against tubular and glomerular lesions induced by hyperglycemia.

CONCLUSION

Both myricetin and BML-259 exhibit comparable protective effects on renal injury by inhibiting Cdk5.

Exercise improves systemic metabolism in a monocrotaline model of pulmonary hypertension

Exercise training in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has been gaining popularity with guidelines now recommending it as an important adjunct to medical therapy. Despite improvements in function and quality of life, an understanding of metabolic changes and their mechanisms remain unexplored. The objective of this study was therefore to understand the metabolic basis of exercise in a monocrotaline model of PAH. 24 male Wistar rats (age: 8-12 weeks and mean body weight: [262.16 ​± ​24.49] gms) were assigned to one of the four groups (i.e., Control, PAH, Exercise and PAH ​+ ​Exercise). The exercise groups participated in treadmill running at 13.3 ​m/min, five days a week for five weeks. Demographic and clinical characteristics were monitored regularly. Following the intervention, LC-MS based metabolomics were performed on blood samples from all groups at the end of five weeks. Metabolite profiling, peak identification, alignment and isotope annotation were also performed. Statistical inference was carried out using dimensionality reducing techniques and analysis of variance. Partial-least-squares discrimination analysis and variable importance in the projection scores showed that the model was reliable, and not over lifting. The analysis demonstrated significant perturbations to lipid and amino acid metabolism, arginine and homocysteine pathways, sphingolipid (p ​< ​0.05), glycerophospholipid (p ​< ​0.05) and nucleotide metabolism in PAH. Exercise, however, was seen to restore arginine (p ​< ​0.05) and homocysteine(p ​< ​0.000 1) levels which were independent effects, irrespective of PAH. Dysregulated arginine and homocysteine pathways are seen in PAH. Exercise restores these dysregulated pathways and could potentially impact severity and outcome in PAH.

Establishing Patient-Derived Xenograft (PDX) Models of Lymphomas

Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of lymphoma typically involve the injection of human tumor cells into an immunocompromised murine host. PDXs have the advantage that the tumor cells grow in a 3D environment within the mouse, meaning the selection pressure of in vitro establishment is avoided and the tumor cells better maintain their genetic heterogeneity. Here, we outline a method for producing and maintaining a PDX model of lymphoma. We describe three different methods to isolate a single cell suspension of the primary patient tumor, followed by either subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection into an immunocompromised mouse. We then detail how to monitor tumor growth and how to harvest, passage, and store the tumors once they have grown. We highlight and discuss important protocol considerations including technical hints as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the methods described.

Optimal Maternal Ventilation During Laparotomy with General Anesthesia in Pregnancy in the Ovine Model

BACKGROUND

General anesthesia during pregnancy is not uncommon, for example, for trauma surgery, cerclage, or cesarean delivery. Current recommendations are to maintain maternal partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood (paCO2) at 30 mm Hg, which is based solely on the average maternal paCO2 in awake pregnant women. However, there is no evidence that this target, compared to other targets, would enable optimal conditions for the fetus during general anesthesia. Maternal paCO2 can affect uterine blood flow, affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen, and fetal CO2 elimination. In this study, a range of potential targets of maternal paCO2 was investigated in the ovine model, aiming to determine which target is most conducive to physiological fetal blood gas values during laparotomy with general anesthesia.

METHODS

Ten time-mated pregnant Swifter ewes with a gestational age of 93 to 104 days were used. During the first phase of the experiment, anesthesia was induced, all ewes were ventilated to target a physiological maternal paCO2 of 30 mm Hg, a maternal laparotomy was performed, and a fetal microcatheter was inserted surgically to enable blood sampling from the fetal aorta. Thereafter, in the second phase of the experiment, the 10 pregnant ewes were randomized to 10 different targets of maternal paCO2 between 27 and 50 mm Hg (1 target for each ewe), and maternal ventilation was adjusted accordingly. Forty-five minutes later, maternal and fetal arterial blood gas samples were analyzed. Linear regression models were used to estimate maternal paCO2 enabling physiologic fetal parameters, including fetal paCO2 (primary outcome).

RESULTS

A maternal paCO2 of 27.4 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, 23.1-30.3) enabled physiological fetal paCO2. Each increase in maternal paCO2 by 1 mm Hg, on average, increased fetal paCO2 by 0.94 mm Hg (0.69-1.19). This relationship had a strong correlation (r² = 0.906). No fetuses died during the experiment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides experimental support for the clinical recommendation to maintain maternal paCO2 close to the physiologic value of 30 mm Hg during general anesthesia for maternal laparotomy in pregnancy as it is conducive to physiological fetal blood gas values. Given the lower bound of the 95% confidence interval, the possibility that a lower maternal paCO2 would improve fetal gas exchange cannot be excluded.

Comparative transcriptome analysis of albino northern snakehead (Channa argus) reveals its various collagen-related DEGs in caudal fin cells

The albino northern snakehead (Channa argus) is an aquaculture species characterized by heritable albino body color, in contrast to the typical coloration. Additionally, there are gray- and golden-finned individuals, which exhibit distinct coloration in their caudal fins. We performed RNA-seq to profile the transcriptome of caudal fin tissues in albino gray-finned and golden-finned C. argus, contrasting these with normal morphs to elucidate the differences between the two groups. A total of 137,130 unigenes were identified in this study. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis showed that the identified DEGs were significantly enriched in cellular components related to cytoplasm. So far, 379 common DEGs have been identified in all three groups. Notably, we observed more DEGs in golden-finned individuals compared to gray-finned individuals. We also revealed that golden-finned individuals were enriched in collagen-related pathways compared with normal individuals. The enriched DEGs of collagen components include collagen I of COL1A1 and COL1A2, collagen II of COL2A1, collagen V of COL5A1 and COL5A2, collagen VI of COL6A1 and COL6A3, collagen IX of COL9A3, collagen X of COL10A1, collagen XI of COL11A2, collagen XII of COL12A1, collagen XVI of COL16A1, collagen XVIII of COL18A1 and decorin (DCN), all of which play a role in modulating the collagen matrix. In golden-finned albino fish, collagen-related genes were downregulated, suggesting that despite the abundance of collagen types in their caudal fin cells, gene expression was slightly limited. This work provides valuable genetic insights into collagen variation in albino C. argus, lays the foundation for research on collagen genes and is crucial for the development and utilization of fish-derived collagen as a biomaterial for tissue engineering and biomedical applications.

Impact of Chlorella sorokiniana feed additive on poultry growth health and oxidative stress in erythrocytes

Microalgae, have emerged as a potentially promising feed additive option due to their beneficial nutritional profile rich in bioactive compounds. The present study examines the incorporation of Chlorella sorokiniana (at 0.1% and 1%) into chicken feed compared to control feed and its effect on growth and health parameters of poultry grown at pilot plant scale. Growth performance parameters (weight, feed conversion ratio (FCR), mortality, European Production Efficiency Index (EPEF)) and the immune system response are examined. In addition, it examines well-being gut health and nutrient absorption related variables via macroscopical and histological analysis. Finally, red blood cell (RBC) morphology and oxidative stress parameters (reactive oxygens species (ROS) and malondialdehyde level) in the whole blood as well as the lipid profile of the adipose tissue are determined. Addition of Chlorella sorokiniana at 0.1% resulted improved growth performance parameters whereas the ROS levels were significantly decreased indicating reduced oxidative stress. Finally, the results of histological analyses of the intestine on parameters related to nutrient absorption correlated with the results on growth performance. On the other hand, addition Chlorella sorokiniana at 1% did not affect significantly the growth performance parameters, resulted in increased footpad dermatitis, increased oxidative stress and alterations in RBC.

Deep learning models reveal the link between dynamic brain connectivity patterns and states of consciousness

Decoding states of consciousness from brain activity is a central challenge in neuroscience. Dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) allows the study of short-term temporal changes in functional connectivity (FC) between distributed brain areas. By clustering dFC matrices from resting-state fMRI, we previously described "brain patterns" that underlie different functional configurations of the brain at rest. The networks associated with these patterns have been extensively analyzed. However, the overall dynamic organization and how it relates to consciousness remains unclear. We hypothesized that deep learning networks would help to model this relationship. Recent studies have used low-dimensional variational autoencoders (VAE) to learn meaningful representations that can help explaining consciousness. Here, we investigated the complexity of selecting such a generative model to study brain dynamics, and extended the available methods for latent space characterization and modeling. Therefore, our contributions are threefold. First, compared with probabilistic principal component analysis and sparse VAE, we showed that the selected low-dimensional VAE exhibits balanced performance in reconstructing dFCs and classifying brain patterns. We then explored the organization of the obtained low-dimensional dFC latent representations. We showed how these representations stratify the dynamic organization of the brain patterns as well as the experimental conditions. Finally, we proposed to delve into the proposed brain computational model. We first applied a receptive field analysis to identify preferred directions in the latent space to move from one brain pattern to another. Then, an ablation study was achieved where we virtually inactivated specific brain areas. We demonstrated the model's efficiency in summarizing consciousness-specific information encoded in key inter-areal connections, as described in the global neuronal workspace theory of consciousness. The proposed framework advocates the possibility of developing an interpretable computational brain model of interest for disorders of consciousness, paving the way for a dynamic diagnostic support tool.

Shortening of the telomere length during the transition period of dairy cows in relation to biological stress

Telomere length (TL) is a recognized biomarker for ageing in multiple species. In dairy cattle, the transition period is considered a very stressful period. We hypothesized that TL shortens during this period. Holstein cows (n = 61) were followed during the transition period. Blood and milk samples were collected at - 7, 3, 6, 9, 21d relative to calving to determine concentrations of oxidative, energetic metabolic, and inflammatory markers. Average relative leukocyte TL was measured by a modified qPCR protocol 7d before and 21d after parturition. We confirmed TL attrition during the transition period (P = 0.02), as TL was 1.05 ± 0.229 (mean ± SD) before, and 0.97 ± 0.191 (mean ± SD) after parturition. Univariable analyses assessed associations between blood markers and TL shortening. Greater plasma oxidative parameters, including oxidized glutathione and glutathione peroxidase, were positively and negatively (respectively) associated with TL attrition. Higher blood α- and β-globulin were all positively associated, while IGF-1, albumin-globulin ratio and albumin were negatively associated with TL attrition. Greater serum amyloid A and haptoglobin were linked with greater TL shortening. This study reveals significant TL shortening during the transition period in dairy cows and identifies significant associations with oxidative stress, metabolic stress, and inflammation. While these associations are observed, no causality can be established. Our findings suggest the need for further research to explore the effects of transition-related stress on TL dynamics.

Orthotopic meningioma rat model exhibits morphological and immunohistochemical congruency and epigenetic concordance with benign primary patient-derived tumors

Meningiomas are the most common primary central nervous system tumor. Clinical trials have failed to support effective medical treatments, despite initially promising animal studies. A key issue could be that available experimental models fail to mimic the clinical situation. Hence, there is a need for meningioma models with high translational value for understanding pathophysiology and tests of possible medical treatments. Resemblance between models and clinical meningiomas should be optimized with respect to morphology, immunohistochemistry and epigenetic factors, which we aimed to do. Third passage primary patient-derived benign meningiomas were implanted intracranially in athymic nude rats. The animals were euthanized after three months. We found intra- and intertumoral variability in terms of tumor take rate (79.5% for superficially implanted cells and 25% for deeply implanted cells) and xenograft sizes. There were close resemblance between primary tumors and xenografts in morphology and immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, we performed DNA-methylation using the EPIC 850 K array on three pairs of primary tumors and xenografts. Copy number variation profiles and correlation plots on CpGs showed a high degree of similarities between primary tumors and corresponding xenografts. On differential methylation analysis, most probes were insignificant (866,074), 25 were hypermethylated, and 382 were hypomethylated, where no significant differentially methylated regions were revealed.

Non-lethal sampling of phalanges for heavy metal bioaccumulation in Pelophylax nigromaculatus from historical mercury mining areas in Southwestern China

The Wanshan mercury mining area (WMMA) in Guizhou Province, China, has been identified as a region at high ecological risk owing to heavy metal contamination. This study employed non-lethal sampling methods, using the phalanges of Pelophylax nigromaculatus in the WMMA as analytical material. Ten heavy metal (metalloid) elements were selected for analysis, including Hg, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, As, and Se. These elements were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), while Hg was determined using atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS). The bioaccumulation characteristics of heavy metals in P. nigromaculatus were analyzed through the bioaccumulation factor (BAF), and the extent of heavy metal pollution along with potential ecological risk was assessed using the potential ecological risk index (RI). The scaled mass index (SMI) was utilized to evaluate the body condition of P. nigromaculatus. Additionally, a combination of Spearman correlation analysis and non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) was employed to identify the sources and contributions of heavy metal elements. The results indicated that the distribution characteristics of heavy metal elements in the phalanges of P. nigromaculatus varied. Except for Pb, the concentrations of essential trace elements were significantly higher than those of non-essential elements. The bioaccumulation potential of P. nigromaculatus for heavy metal elements in the soil was found to be low, whereas the exposure risk from heavy metals in the water was high. The presence of heavy metal elements poses a significant potential ecological risk to P. nigromaculatus, with Hg, Cd, and As identified as the primary contributors to this risk. The environmental sources of heavy metals were identified as follows: Hg, Pb, Zn, and Se mainly originated from mining pollution sources; As and Cd primarily came from atmospheric pollution sources; Cr and Cu were mainly from natural activities sources; and Mn and Ni had multiple composite sources. Although heavy metal pollution negatively impacted the physical condition of P. nigromaculatus, no significant differences in SMI were observed across different regions. We believe that this is primarily attributable to the high levels of Se, which effectively mitigate the toxicity of heavy metals. The study demonstrated that using frog phalanges for heavy metal bioaccumulation analysis and SMI for physical condition assessment are simple, safe, and non-lethal methods, which can serve as useful indicators of environmental pollution and help trace the sources of environmental pollutants.

Transcriptomic and genetic profiling in a spontaneous non-human primate model of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and sudden cardiac death

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) afflicts humans, cats, pigs, and rhesus macaques. Disease sequelae include congestive heart failure, thromboembolism, and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Sarcomeric mutations explain some human and cat cases, however, the molecular basis in rhesus macaques remains unknown. RNA-Seq of the LV tissues of five HCM-affected and seven healthy control rhesus macaques was employed for differential transcriptomic analyses. DNA from 15 severely HCM-affected and 21 healthy geriatric rhesus macaques were selected for whole-genome sequencing. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of disease status and SCD outcome was performed. 614 down- and 1,065 upregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between groups. The top DEG (MAFF) was overexpressed in affected animals (log2FoldChange = 4.71; PAdjusted-value = 1.14E-133). Channelopathy-associated enriched terms were identified in ~ 57% of downregulated DEGs providing transcriptomic evidence of hypertrophic and arrhythmic disease processes. For GWAS, no putative variant withstood segregation. Polygenic modeling analysis resulted in poor prediction power and burden testing could not explain HCM by an association of multiple variants in any gene. Neither single nor compound genetic variant(s), or identified polygenic profile, suggest complex genotype-phenotype interactions in rhesus macaques. Brought forth is an established dataset of robustly phenotyped rhesus macaques as an open-access resource for future cardiovascular disease genetic studies.

Koala MHCII association with chlamydia infertility remains equivocal: a need for new research approaches

Chlamydiosis is a common infectious disease impacting koalas and is a major cause of population decline due to resulting mortality and infertility. Polymorphisms of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes influence chlamydial disease outcomes in several species but koala studies have produced variable results. We aimed to identify the MHC II DAB and DBB repertoire of koalas from Liverpool Plains, NSW, a population heavily impacted by chlamydiosis. We compared variants between two studies, age cohorts and chlamydial infertility groups. Four DBB and eight DAB alleles were identified. The mean number of DAB alleles per individual increased and allele frequencies differed relative to a previous study, however the mean number of DBB alleles per individual decreased generationally, between age cohorts. DAB allele frequencies differed among fertility groups but contributing alleles could not be identified. While there is a likely role of MHCII in the complex pathogenesis of chlamydiosis, this study suggests that single gene association studies are not appropriate for understanding the impact of host genetics on koala chlamydiosis. A shift to larger multivariate studies is required to yield functional information on complex immunological interactions, and to inform targeted koala conservation across its diverse range and host-pathogen-environment contexts.

Predicting fine-scale downstream migratory movement of Atlantic salmon smolt (Salmo salar) in front of a hydropower plant

The Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is an iconic species of significant ecological and economic importance. Their downstream migration as smolts represents a critical life-history stage that exposes them to numerous challenges, including passage through hydropower plants. Understanding and predicting fine-scale movement patterns of smolts near hydropower plants is therefore essential for adaptive and effective management and conservation of this species. We present a spatially explicit individual-based model for predicting the movement of Atlantic salmon smolts in regulated rivers in Norway, parameterised for smolt movements in the River Mandal and the River Orkla. The model is rooted in statistically derived relationships between observed smolt swimming behaviour and the hydraulic variables they encounter. The aim of the model was to provide fast yet representative swimming patterns past hydropower plants, based on the hydraulic conditions experienced by the smolts. The model outperformed a 'drift-only' model in portraying observed swim tracks when comparing simulated and observed tracks. It was found to represent smolt swimming behaviour well. Our results show that by constructing swim models using relatively simple and general statistical relationships between smolt swimming behaviour and the hydraulic environment, we can produce fast and relevant outputs for an adaptive management process, aimed at exploring how physical implementations or changes in flow regulations might affect smolt populations.

ICEmST contributes to colonization of Salmonella in the intestine of piglets

Salmonella enterica serovar 4,[5],12:i:- sequence type 34 (ST34) has recently become a global concern for public and animal health. The acquisition of mobile genetic element ICEmST, which contains two copper tolerance gene clusters, cus and pco, influences the epidemic success of this clone. Copper is used as a feed additive in swine at levels that potentially lead to selection pressure for Enterobacteriaceae; however, it remains unclear whether the copper tolerance system of ICEmST functions in vivo. We performed competition assays with Salmonella 4,[5],12:i:- ST34 wildtype (WT) and deletion mutants of ICEmST (ΔICEmST, Δcus, and Δpco) in groups of mice fed 0, 150, and 500 ppm CuSO4. In the competition of WT against ΔICEmST and Δcus, the competitive index of the 500 ppm-fed group was significantly lower than that of the 0 ppm-fed group. In the swine experiment, all individuals were fed 150 ppm CuSO4. The number of ICEmST-positive strain in the feces was significantly greater than that of ICEmST-negative strain. The serum inflammatory markers were significantly increased in swine infected with the ICEmST-positive strain. These data suggest that ICEmST, especially cus, provides Salmonella with the ability to colonize in the intestine, even at high copper concentrations, leading to swine salmonellosis.

Aneurysm healing following treatment with biodegradable embolization materials: assessment in a rat sidewall aneurysm model

BACKGROUND

Biodegradable materials that dissolve after aneurysm healing are promising techniques in the field of neurointerventional surgery. We investigated the effects of various bioabsorable materials in combination with degradable magnesium alloy stents and evaluated aneurysm healing in a rat aneurysm model.

METHODS

Saccular aneurysms were created by end-to-side anastomosis in the abdominal aorta of Wistar rats. Untreated arterial grafts were immediately transplanted (vital aneurysms) whereas aneurysms with loss of mural cells were chemically decellularized before implantation. All aneurysms were treated with biodegradable magnesium stents. The animals were assigned to vital aneurysms treated with stent alone or decellularized aneurysms treated with stent alone, detachable coil, or long-term or short-term biodegradable thread. Aneurysm healing, rated microscopically and macroscopically at follow-up days 7 and 21, was defined by both neointima formation and absence of aneurysm volume increase over time.

RESULTS

Of 56 animals included, significant increases in aneurysm volume 7 days after surgery were observed in aneurysms with vital and decellularized walls treated with a stent only (P=0.043 each group). Twenty-one days after surgery an increase in aneurysm volume was observed in decellularized aneurysms treated with long- and short-term biodegradable threads (P=0.027 and P=0.028, respectively). Histological changes associated with an increase in aneurysm volume were seen for aneurysm wall inflammation, periadventitial fibrosis, and luminal thrombus.

CONCLUSIONS

An increase in aneurysm volume was associated with an absence of intrasaccular embolization material (early phase) and the breakdown of intrasaccular biodegradable material over time (late phase). Thrombus remnant and aneurysm wall inflammation promote aneurysm volume increase.

Oral Lactoferrin-Responsive Formulation Anchoring around Inflammatory Bowel Region for IBD Therapy

Oral formulation is the ideal treatment method for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) therapy, but the mucosal damage and diarrhea symptoms impede the drug retention around the inflammatory region, severely limiting IBD therapeutic efficacy. To address this, an oral astaxanthin (Ast) precise delivery formulation is developed with the selective Ast anchoring around the inflammatory region by the novel lactoferrin (LF)-responsive flocculation. This formulation also heightens the apparent solubility of Ast with the minimized edible safety risks for the edible raw materials. For in vivo IBD therapy, the precise delivery formulation exhibits remarkable outcomes, including a significant increase in colon length and a 100% survival rate. Furthermore, it is verified that the mechanism of treatment is primarily attributed to the improved immunoregulation, epithelial repair, and gut microbiota remodeling after the LF-responsive flocculation. This effective inflammatory-responsive delivery design is instructive and valuable to develop more precise delivery systems for IBD therapy.

HDI-STARR-seq: Condition-specific enhancer discovery in mouse liver in vivo

BACKGROUND

STARR-seq and other massively-parallel reporter assays are widely used to discover functional enhancers in transfected cell models, which can be confounded by plasmid vector-induced type-I interferon immune responses and lack the multicellular environment and endogenous chromatin state of complex mammalian tissues.

RESULTS

We describe HDI-STARR-seq, which combines STARR-seq plasmid library delivery to the liver, by hydrodynamic tail vein injection (HDI), with reporter RNA transcriptional initiation driven by a minimal Albumin promoter, which we show is essential for mouse liver STARR-seq enhancer activity assayed 7 days after HDI. Importantly, little or no vector-induced innate type-I interferon responses were observed. Comparisons of HDI-STARR-seq activity between male and female mouse livers and in livers from males treated with an activating ligand of the transcription factor (TF) CAR (Nr1i3) identified many condition-dependent enhancers linked to condition-specific gene expression. Further, thousands of active liver enhancers were identified using a high complexity STARR-seq library comprised of ~ 50,000 genomic regions released by DNase-I digestion of mouse liver nuclei. When compared to stringently inactive library sequences, the active enhancer sequences identified were highly enriched for liver open chromatin regions with activating histone marks (H3K27ac, H3K4me1, H3K4me3), were significantly closer to gene transcriptional start sites, and were significantly depleted of repressive (H3K27me3, H3K9me3) and transcribed region histone marks (H3K36me3).

CONCLUSION

HDI-STARR-seq offers substantial improvements over current methodologies for large scale, functional profiling of enhancers, including condition-dependent enhancers, in liver tissue in vivo, and can be adapted to characterize enhancer activities in a variety of species and tissues by selecting suitable tissue- and species-specific promoter sequences.

Pathological studies on skeletal muscle atrophy in common fish products from El-Jubail Province, Saudi Arabia

In this study, 10 fish species, Jayan flounder (Pseudorhombus javanicus); Oriental sole (Eurgglossa arientalis); Oange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides); Blacktip trevally (Caranx heberi); Towbar seabream (Acanthopagrus bifascia); Smalltooth emperor (Lethrinus microdon); Spangled emperio (Lethrinus nebulous); Sharptooth hammer croaker (Johnius vogleri); Bigeye croaker (Pennahia anea) and Redspine thread bream (Nemipterus nemurus), were examined in El-Jubail province, Saudi Arabia, Arabian Gulf region over three years from 2017 to 2020. The examined fish species showed muscular atrophy in a total percent of 1.1%, but with variable percentages of affections in each species. The highest incidence (2.06%) was oberved in Spangled emperior (Lethrinus nebulous) while the lowest incidence (0.40%) was in Orange spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) and Smalltooth emperor (Lethrinus microdon). The affected fishes appeared with sunken eyes, severe emaciation, and prominent loss of skeletal muscle mass. During dissection, the muscular tissue in some examined species was rough while in others, it was edematous and gelatinous, and the internal organs of all fishes were atrophied. For routine histopathological examination, the tissue samples were fixed in 10% buffered neutral formalin. The examined tissue sections of the affected muscles showed variable degrees of histopathological changes depending on the species. Vacuolation of muscle fibers, Zenker's necrosis and myophagia were common in some species, while melanophores aggregation, edema, and hemorrhages were the most commonly observed changes in others. This study focused on the impact of this myodegenerative disease on the marketability of these edible fish species. Further investigation is needed to understand the impact of genetic predisposition, environmental pollution and other etiological agents on the occurrence of this phenomenon in this location.

CRIME-Q-a unifying tool for critical appraisal of methodological (technical) quality, quality of reporting and risk of bias in animal research

BACKGROUND

Systematic reviews within the field of animal research are becoming more common. However, in animal translational research, issues related to methodological quality and quality of reporting continue to arise, potentially leading to underestimation or overestimation of the effects of interventions or prevent studies from being replicated. The various tools and checklists available to ensure good-quality studies and proper reporting include both unique and/or overlapping items and/or simply lack necessary elements or are too situational to certain conditions or diseases. Currently, there is no tool available, which covers all aspects of animal models, from bench-top activities to animal facilities, hence a new tool is needed. This tool should be designed to be able to assess all kinds of animal studies such as old, new, low quality, high quality, interventional and noninterventional on. It should do this on multiple levels through items on quality of reporting, methodological (technical) quality, and risk of bias, for use in assessing the overall quality of studies involving animal research.

METHODS

During a systematic review of meningioma models in animals, we developed a novel unifying tool that can assess all types of animal studies from multiple perspectives. The tool was inspired by the Collaborative Approach to Meta Analysis and Review of Animal Data from Experimental Studies (CAMARADES) checklist, the ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines, and SYRCLE's risk of bias tool, while also incorporating unique items. We used the interrater agreement percentage and Cohen's kappa index to test the interrater agreement between two independent reviewers for the items in the tool.

RESULTS

There was high interrater agreement across all items (92.9%, 95% CI 91.0-94.8). Cohen's kappa index showed quality of reporting had the best mean index of 0.86 (95%-CI 0.78-0.94), methodological quality had a mean index of 0.83 (95%-CI 0.78-0.94) and finally the items from SYRCLE's risk of bias had a mean kappa index of 0.68 (95%-CI 0.57-0.79).

CONCLUSIONS

The Critical Appraisal of Methodological (technical) Quality, Quality of Reporting and Risk of Bias in Animal Research (CRIME-Q) tool unifies a broad spectrum of information (both unique items and items inspired by other methods) about the quality of reporting and methodological (technical) quality, and contains items from SYRCLE's risk of bias. The tool is intended for use in assessing overall study quality across multiple domains and items and is not, unlike other tools, restricted to any particular model or study design (whether interventional or noninterventional). It is also easy to apply when designing and conducting animal experiments to ensure proper reporting and design in terms of replicability, transparency, and validity.

Involvement of autophagy in germ cells in an experimental model of varicocele in rats before and after varicocelectomy

INTRODUCTION

Autophagy, a catabolic process enabling cellular organelles and proteins' reuse for energy, has been observed in varicocele models, but the effect of surgical treatment on this process remains unknown. This study aims to assess autophagy in varicocele models undergoing surgical correction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-one adolescent male rats were induced with varicocele and divided into three groups: sham, varicocele, and varicocele with varicocelectomy. After 21 days, testicles were examined histologically for spermatogenesis (Jonhsen's score) and immunohistochemically for autophagy markers (LC3A, Beclin-1, Ambra-1, ULK-1, p62). Positive germ cells were quantitatively evaluated, and data were statistically analyzed (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Histological examination revealed significantly reduced Jonhsen's scores in varicocele compared to sham and varicocelectomy groups (p < 0.05). Expression of autophagy markers (LC3A, Beclin-1, Ambra-1, ULK-1, p62) was significantly higher in varicocele than sham and varicocelectomy groups (p < 0.05), and in varicocelectomy than sham (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Varicocele activates autophagy markers, with p62 potentially modulating autophagy despite being considered an inhibitor. While varicocelectomy improves histology, it doesn't fully inhibit autophagy, suggesting ongoing germ cell dysfunction despite treatment. This underscores varicocele's detrimental effects on germ cell functionality.

Effects of Platelet-Rich Fibrin on Bone Healing Around Implants Placed in Maxillary Sinuses: A Histomorphometric Assessment in Rabbits

This study investigated the effect of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on bone healing around implants placed in elevated sinus cavities. Forty New Zealand albino rabbits were divided into eight groups, based on the time of sacrifice (14 or 40 days) and the material used: blood clot (control), hydroxyapatite (HA) from bovine bone, HA combined with PRF, and PRF alone. Each group consisted of five animals (n = 5). A histological analysis measured bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and bone area fraction occupancy (BAFO). The results showed significant increases in the BIC and BAFO values at 40 days compared to 14 days in most groups. At day 14, the HA+PRF group had higher BIC than the clot and the PRF alone groups. At 40 days, HA+PRF maintained the highest BIC across all groups (p < 0.05), though it did not show an advantage for BAFO. These findings indicate that combining HA with PRF promotes better osseointegration around implants placed immediately in maxillary sinus augmentation. Given the limited research on PRF's biological impact, these results underscore the importance of evaluating PRF's role in peri-implant healing and its potential benefits for clinical use in sinus augmentation.

Effects of Acute Stress on Metabolic Interactions Related to the Tricarboxylic Acid (TCA) Cycle in the Left Hippocampus of Mice

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The acute stress response affects brain metabolites closely linked to the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. This response involves time-dependent changes in hormones and neurotransmitters, which contribute to resilience and the ability to adapt to acute stress while maintaining homeostasis. This physiological mechanism of metabolic dynamics, combined with time-series analysis, has prompted the development of new methods to observe the relationship between TCA cycle-related brain metabolites. This study aimed to observe the acute stress response through metabolic interactions using time-series proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) in the left hippocampus of mice.

METHODS

In this study, 4-week-old male C57BL/6N mice (n = 24) were divided into control (n = 12) and acute stress groups (n = 12). Acute stress was induced through a 2 h restraint protocol. Time-series 1H-MRS data were obtained on the left hippocampus of both groups using a 9.4 T 1H-MRS scanner. Time-series MRS data were quantified using LCModel, and significant metabolic interactions were identified through Spearman correlation analysis, a one-tailed sign test, and false discovery rate correction.

RESULTS

No significant metabolic correlation coefficient was observed in the control group. However, in the acute stress group, glutathione (GSH) and N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) showed a significant positive correlation over time, with a high correlation coefficient exceeding 0.5.

CONCLUSIONS

Temporal measurement of GSH and NAA, combined with correlation analysis, offers a comprehensive understanding for the metabolic dynamics during acute stress. This approach emphasizes their distinct roles and interdependence in the progression of oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and the maintenance of physiological homeostasis.

What we (don't) know about parrot welfare: Finding welfare indicators through a systematic literature review

Parrots are popular companion animals but show prevalent and at times severe welfare issues. Nonetheless, there are no scientific tools available to assess parrot welfare. The aim of this systematic review was to identify valid and feasible outcome measures that could be used as welfare indicators for companion parrots. From 1,848 peer-reviewed studies retrieved, 98 met our inclusion and exclusion criteria (e.g. experimental studies, captive parrots). For each outcome collected, validity was assessed based on the statistical significance reported by the authors, as other validity parameters were rarely provided for evaluation. Feasibility was assigned by considering the need for specific instruments, veterinary-level expertise or handling the parrot. A total of 1,512 outcomes were evaluated, of which 572 had a significant P-value and were considered feasible. These included changes in behaviour (e.g. activity level, social interactions, exploration), body measurements (e.g. body weight, plumage condition) and abnormal behaviours, amongst others. Many physical and physiological parameters were identified that either require experimental validation, or veterinary-level skills and expertise, limiting their potential use by parrot owners themselves. Moreover, a high risk of bias undermined the internal validity of these outcomes, while a strong taxonomic bias, a predominance of studies on parrots in laboratories, and an underrepresentation of companion parrots jeopardised their external validity. These results provide a promising starting point for validating a set of welfare indicators in parrots.

Exploring the Impact of Biological Agents on Protecting Against Experimental Periodontitis: A Systematic Review of Animal-Based Studies

Aim: This systematic review was aimed at addressing the focused question: What is the protective potential of biological agents against alveolar bone resorption during the progression of experimental periodontitis (EP)? Material and Methods: The study protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework database (doi:10.17605/OSF.IO/3P2HY). A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Embase databases up to December 2023. Inclusion criteria consisted of preclinical studies in animal models of EP that examined the effects of biological agents on preventing periodontal bone loss and reducing tissue inflammation. Studies were excluded if they (i) used non-EP animal models; (ii) focused on antimicrobial agents; (iii) centered on prebiotics or probiotics; (iv) evaluated compounds not classified as biologicals; or (v) included randomized clinical trials, clinical studies, or reviews. Eligibility was determined based on the PI/ECOs framework, and study quality was assessed using the SYRCLE risk-of-bias tool. Results: After screening an initial pool of 5236 records from databases, registries, and hand searches, 39 studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 23 biological agents were evaluated across these studies. The majority of studies employed the ligature-induced model of EP to test the effectiveness of biologicals as preventive or therapeutic interventions. The dosage of biological agents and the duration of disease induction varied depending on the EP model. In all studies, the main outcome-alveolar bone loss, a hallmark of EP-was significantly inhibited by biological agents, which also reduced proinflammatory mediators when compared to untreated controls. A key strength of this review is the high number of studies included, most of which were classified as having low risk of bias. However, a notable limitation is the absence of a meta-analysis, the short follow-up periods in the included studies, and the heterogeneity among the compound dosages and route of administration. Conclusion: This systematic review demonstrates that biological agents are effective in reducing bone loss and mitigating inflammation during EP progression. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings in human populations.

A Novel Preclinical Murine Model of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus-Like Cardiovascular Disease

OBJECTIVE

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affects nine women to every man worldwide, and these patients are at greater risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality. Clinical studies have demonstrated that patients with SLE are more likely to develop CVD, including cardiac and vascular dysfunction. Although many preclinical models of SLE are available, including treatment with Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/8 agonists, a consistent preclinical model of SLE-like CVD with systemic, cardiac, renal, and cerebral endothelial activation and cardiac dysfunction has yet to be described. Here, we hypothesize that acceleration of SLE with the TLR7/8 agonist resiquimod (R848) will promote cardiac and endothelial activation with subsequent end-stage organ damage in the SLE-prone B6.Nba2 mouse model.

METHODS

Female and male SLE-prone B6.Nba2 mice were treated with R848 or acetone, administered topically twice weekly over a four-week period, to accelerate the development of SLE-like pathophysiology. Echocardiography was performed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 16 weeks. At 16 weeks, tissues were harvested, weighed, and analyzed by histology, immunofluorescence, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

RESULTS

We found that female R848-treated mice had increased serum anti-Smith and immunoglobulin G complex deposition in the kidney, heart, and brain consistent with SLE-like etiology. Tissue analysis revealed significant enlargement of the spleen in both female and male R848-treated mice, with only cardiac and renal enlargement in females compared to their respective controls. Echocardiographic imaging revealed left ventricular wall thickening by 4 weeks that was followed by a progressive increase in left ventricular internal diameters and subsequent decrease in ejection fraction over the 16-week time course in female mice. We found that circulating levels of soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1 and soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1 were increased in both female and male R848-treated mice, whereas cardiac and renal fibrosis were significantly increased in only female R848-treated mice.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that R848 treatment of SLE-prone B6.Nba2 mice is a novel preclinical model to study the sex-dependent pathophysiologic mechanisms of SLE-like CVD.

Deep learning segmentation model for quantification of infarct size in pigs with myocardial ischemia/reperfusion

Infarct size (IS) is the most robust end point for evaluating the success of preclinical studies on cardioprotection. The gold standard for IS quantification in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) experiments is triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, typically done manually. This study aimed to determine if automation through deep learning segmentation is a time-saving and valid alternative to standard IS quantification. High-resolution images from TTC-stained, macroscopic heart slices were retrospectively collected from pig experiments (n = 390) with I/R without/with cardioprotection to cover a wide IS range. Existing IS data from pig experiments, quantified using a standard method of manual and subsequent digital labeling of film-scan annotations, were used as reference. To automate the evaluation process with the aim to be more objective and save time, a deep learning pipeline was implemented; the collected images (n = 3869) were pre-processed by cropping and labeled (image annotations). To ensure their usability as training data for a deep learning segmentation model, IS was quantified from image annotations and compared to IS quantified using the existing film-scan annotations. A supervised deep learning segmentation model based on dynamic U-Net architecture was developed and trained. The evaluation of the trained model was performed by fivefold cross-validation (n = 220 experiments) and testing on an independent test set (n = 170 experiments). Performance metrics (Dice similarity coefficient [DSC], pixel accuracy [ACC], average precision [mAP]) were calculated. IS was then quantified from predictions and compared to IS quantified from image annotations (linear regression, Pearson's r; analysis of covariance; Bland-Altman plots). Performance metrics near 1 indicated a strong model performance on cross-validated data (DSC: 0.90, ACC: 0.98, mAP: 0.90) and on the test set data (DSC: 0.89, ACC: 0.98, mAP: 0.93). IS quantified from predictions correlated well with IS quantified from image annotations in all data sets (cross-validation: r = 0.98; test data set: r = 0.95) and analysis of covariance identified no significant differences. The model reduced the IS quantification time per experiment from approximately 90 min to 20 s. The model was further tested on a preliminary test set from experiments in isolated, saline-perfused rat hearts with regional I/R without/with cardioprotection (n = 27). There was also no significant difference in IS between image annotations and predictions, but the performance on the test set data from rat hearts was lower (DSC: 0.66, ACC: 0.91, mAP: 0.65). IS quantification using a deep learning segmentation model is a valid and time-efficient alternative to manual and subsequent digital labeling.

Ursodeoxycholic acid ameliorates erectile dysfunction and corporal fibrosis in diabetic rats by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad2 pathway

Corporal tissue fibrosis is critical in diabetes-associated erectile dysfunction. Transforming growth factor-β1/Small mothers against decapentaplegic-2 (TGF-β1/Smad2) contributes to the induction of fibrosis in corporal tissue. Smad7 is accepted as a general negative regulator of Smad signaling, although its role in corporal fibrosis is unknown. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a hydrophilic bile acid used for biliary and liver related disorders and has antifibrotic effects in the liver. This study investigated the effects of UDCA on diabetic erectile dysfunction. Forty-eight male Spraque Dawley rats were divided into six groups: nondiabetic (n = 6), nondiabetic+20 mg/kg UDCA (n = 6), nondiabetic+80 mg/kg UDCA (n = 6), diabetic (n = 10), diabetic+20 mg/kg UDCA (n = 10), diabetic+80 mg/kg UDCA (n = 10). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg Streptozocin. UDCA (20 and 80 mg/kg/day) or saline was subsequently administered via oral gavage for 56 days. Erectile function was evaluated as measurement of maximum intracavernosal pressure (m-ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP) and total ICP/MAP. Corporal tissues were evaluated by Western blotting and Masson's trichrome staining. Electrical stimulation-induced m-ICP/MAP responses were higher in UDCA-treated diabetic rats compared to untreated diabetic rats, respectively (20 mg/kg; 4 V: 0.77 ± 0.11 vs 0.45 ± 0.09, p = 0.0001 and 80 mg/kg; 4 V: 0.78 ± 0.11 vs 0.45 ± 0.09, p = 0.0001) UDCA prevented the increase in phospho-Smad2 and fibronectin protein expressions in diabetic corporal tissue both at 20 mg/kg (p = 0.0002, p = 0.002 respectively) and 80 mg/kg doses (p < 0.0001 for both). Smad7 protein expressions were significantly increased in the UDCA-treated diabetic groups compared to the untreated diabetic group (20 mg/kg: p = 0.0079; 80 mg/kg: p = 0.004). Furthermore, UDCA significantly prevented diabetes-induced increase in collagen (20 mg/kg: p = 0.0172; 80 mg/kg: p = 0.0003) and smooth muscle loss (20 mg/kg: p = 0.044; 80 mg/kg: p = 0.039). In conclusion, UDCA has a potential protective effect on erectile function in diabetic rats by altering fibrotic pathways via inhibition of TGF-β1/Smad2 and activation of Smad7.

Exercise training ameliorates carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis and anxiety-like behaviors

Chronic liver diseases and cirrhosis are associated with mood disorders. Regular exercise has various beneficial effects on multiple organs, including the liver and brain. However, the therapeutic effect of exercise on liver fibrosis concomitant with anxiety has not been evaluated. In this study, the effects of exercise training on liver fibrosis-related anxiety-like behaviors were evaluated. Male C57/BL6 mice were divided into four groups: vehicle-sedentary, vehicle-exercise, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-sedentary, and CCl4-exercise. Liver fibrosis was induced by CCl4 administration for 8 wk, exercise was applied in the form of voluntary wheel running. After an intervention, anxiety-like behavior was assessed using the elevated plus maze. CCl4 increased liver and serum fibrotic markers, as measured by blood analysis, histochemistry, and qRT-PCR, and these changes were attenuated by exercise training. CCl4 induced anxiety-like behavior, and the anxiolytic effects of exercise occurred in both healthy and liver-fibrotic mice. In the hippocampus, CCl4-induced changes in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) were reversed by exercise, and exercise enhanced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) induction, even in a state of severe liver fibrosis. These results suggested that hepatic fibrosis-related anxiety-like behaviors may be induced by excess hippocampal nNOS, and the beneficial effects of exercise could be mediated by increases in BDNF and reductions in nNOS. The percentage of fibrotic area was negatively correlated with antianxiety behavior and positively associated with hippocampal nNOS protein levels. Liver fibrosis-related anxiety-like behaviors could be alleviated through the regulation of hippocampal BDNF and nNOS via exercise training. These results support the therapeutic value of exercise by targeting the mechanisms underlying liver fibrosis and associated anxiety.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study explores how exercise affects liver fibrosis-related anxiety in mice. Researchers found that regular exercise reversed carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis and reduced anxiety, even in mice with liver fibrosis. Exercise increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and decreased neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in the hippocampus. These findings suggest that exercise has therapeutic potential for treating anxiety associated with chronic liver disease by modulating specific brain factors.

Tetrabenazine, a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 inhibitor, inhibits vesicular storage capacity and release of monoamine transmitters in mouse brain tissue

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Tetrabenazine (TBZ), used for treating hyperkinetic disorders, inhibits vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT-2), which sequesters monoamines into vesicles for exocytosis. However, our knowledge of the effect of TBZ on monoaminergic transmission is limited. Herein, we provide neurochemical evidence regarding the effect of VMAT-2 inhibition on vesicular neurotransmitter release from the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and striatum (STR) (brain regions involved in characteristic TBZ treatment side effects). The interaction between TBZ and MDMA was also assessed regarding motor behaviour in mice.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Vesicular storage capacity and release of [3H]-noradrenaline ([3H]-NA), [3H]-dopamine ([3H]-DA), [3H]-serotonin ([3H]-5-HT), and [3H]-acetylcholine ([3H]-ACh) was studied in mouse PFC and STR ex vivo slice preparations using electrical field stimulation. Additionally, locomotor activity was assessed in vehicle-treated mice and compared with that of MDMA, TBZ, and co-administered animals (n = 6) using the LABORAS system.

KEY RESULTS

TBZ lowered the storage capacity and inhibited the vesicular release of [3H]-NA and [3H]-DA from the PFC, and [3H]-DA and [3H]-5-HT from the STR in a concentration-dependent manner. Unlike vesamicol (vesicular ACh uptake inhibitor), TBZ failed to inhibit the vesicular release of [3H]-ACh from the PFC. When the vesicular storage of the investigated monoamines was inhibited by TBZ in the PFC and STR, MDMA induced the release of transmitters through transporter reversal; MDMA dose dependently increased locomotor activity in vivo.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Our observations provide neurochemical evidence explaining the mechanism of VMAT-2 inhibitors in the brain and support the involvement of dopaminergic and noradrenergic transmission in hyperkinetic movement disorders.

Silica Nanoparticles from Melon Seed Husk Abrogated Binary Metal(loid) Mediated Cerebellar Dysfunction by Attenuation of Oxido-inflammatory Response and Upregulation of Neurotrophic Factors in Male Albino Rats

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) have been touted for their role in the management of non-communicable diseases. Their neuroprotective benefits against heavy metal-induced neurotoxicity remain largely unexplored. This is a comparative evaluation of the oxido-inflammatory and neurotrophic effects of Ni, Al, and Ni/Al mixture on the cerebellum of male albino rats with or without treatment with SiNPs generated from melon seed husk. The study complied with the ARRIVE guidelines for reporting in vivo experiments. A total of 91, 7-9 week-old weight-matched male Sprague rats (to avoid sex bias) were randomly divided into 13 different dosing groups where Group 1 served as the control. Other groups received 0.2 mg/kg Ni, 1 mg/kg Al, and 0.2 mg/kg Ni + 1 mg/kg Al mixture with or without different doses of SiNP for 90 days. Rotarod performance was carried out. Oxidative stress markers, Ni, Al, Ca, Fe, Mg, neurotrophic factors, amyloid beta (Aβ-42), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were determined in the cerebellum. SiNPs from melon seed husk caused a significant decrease in Aβ-42 level and activities of AChE and COX-2 and a significant increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) mediated by Ni, Al, and Ni/Al mixture exposure in rats. Neurotoxicity of the Ni/Al mixture is via heightened neuronal lipoperoxidative damage, decreased Mg, and increased Fe, and co-administration of SiNPs from melon seed husk with the Ni/Al mixture attenuated some of these biochemical changes in the cerebellum.

AHCC inhibited hepatic stellate cells activation by regulation of cytoglobin induction via TLR2-SAPK/JNK pathway and collagen production via TLR4-NF-κβ pathway

Cirrhosis, which represents the end stage of liver fibrosis, remains a life-threatening condition without effective treatment. Therefore, prevention of the progression of liver fibrosis through lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise is crucial. The functional food AHCC, a standardized extract of cultured Lentinula edodes mycelia produced by Amino Up Co., Ltd. (Sapporo, Japan)] has been reported to be effective in improving the pathophysiology of various liver diseases. In this study, the aim was to analyze the influence of AHCC on hepatic stellate cells, which are responsible for liver fibrosis. Eight-week-old male C57BL6/j mice were induced with liver fibrosis by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride. Simultaneously, they were orally administered 3% AHCC to investigate its impact on the progression of liver fibrosis. Using the human hepatic stellate cell (HHSteC) line, we analyzed the influence of AHCC on the expression of molecules related to hepatic stellate cell activation. The administration of AHCC resulted in reduced expression of collagen1a, α smooth muscle actin (αSMA), and heat shock protein 47 in the liver. Furthermore, the expression of cytoglobin, a marker for quiescent hepatic stellate cells, was enhanced. In vitro study, it was confirmed that AHCC inhibited αSMA by inducing cytoglobin via upregulating the stress-activated protein kinase/Jun NH2-terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK) pathway through Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2. In addition, AHCC suppressed collagen1a production by hepatic stellate cells through TLR4-NF-κβ pathway. AHCC was suggested to suppress hepatic fibrosis by inhibition of hepatic stellate cells activation. Daily intake of AHCC from mild fibrotic stages may have the potential to prevent the progression of liver fibrosis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY AHCC, a standardized extract of cultured Lentinula edodes mycelia, suppresses liver fibrosis progression by induction of cytoglobin via the Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)-stress-activated protein kinase/Jun NH2-terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK) pathway and the inhibition of collagen production via the TLR4-NFκβ pathway in hepatic stellate cells. Daily oral administration of AHCC from the stage of MASLD may have the potential to prevent disease progression to MASH with fibrosis.

Role of Vitamin C on methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity in psoriasis context: A preclinical assessment

Methotrexate (MTX) is the most prescribed drug for systemic treatment of psoriasis. However, its clinical use is limited by its nephrotoxicity, which antioxidants can attenuate. This study evaluates the impact of vitamin C (vitC), a well-known antioxidant, on nephrotoxicity induced by high MTX doses in the context of psoriasis. To achieve this purpose, the kidney injury triggered by acute MTX exposure was established in an imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like mouse model. Mice were randomly divided into six groups: group 1 (control); group 2 (Imiquimod, IMQ), group 3 (IMQ+vitC 175 mg/kg/day); group 4 (MTX 20 mg/kg i.p); group 5 (IMQ+MTX 20 mg/kg) and group 6 (IMQ+MTX 20 mg/kg + vitC 175 mg/kg/day). The effects of these treatments were determined by considering the evolution of IMQ-induced skin lesions and serum creatinine levels. Moreover, histopathological analysis, lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, and TNF-α production were determined in kidney tissue. Results showed that vitC attenuates renal damage in the context of IMQ-induced psoriasis. However, the opposite occurs when administered with IMQ+MTX, worsening skin psoriasis lesions and exacerbating acute renal tubular necrosis and oxidative DNA damage. These results establish new clues about the MTX-induced nephrotoxicity in the psoriasis context and the putative protective effects of vitC. It suggests that vitC supplementation could help attenuate the renal damage promoted by the psoriatic pathological environment. However, it should be avoided in psoriasis patients with renal dysfunction treated with MTX.

Acute depletion of complement C3 with cobra venom factor attenuates memory deficits induced by status epilepticus

OBJECTIVE

Status epilepticus (SE) significantly increases the risk for the development of unprovoked seizures, memory loss, and temporal lobe epilepsy. Our prior studies showed that SE increases complement C3 signaling in the hippocampus, which parallels memory deficits. Additionally, C3 knockout (KO) mice were protected against SE-induced memory impairments, suggesting a mechanistic role for C3 in this pathophysiology. In this study, we utilized cobra venom factor (CVF), a structural analog of C3 that results in its depletion, to investigate the protective effects of post-SE C3 ablation on memory deficits that develop during epileptogenesis.

METHODS

SE was induced in male rats using the chemoconvulsant pilocarpine. Two weeks later, control (C) and SE rats were treated with either vehicle (V) or CVF. Recognition memory was assessed using the novel object recognition (NOR) test in four groups (C + V, C + CVF, SE + V, and SE + CVF). Immunoblotting was used to measure hippocampal protein levels of C3 along with synaptic, astrocyte, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) stability markers, Psd95, GFAP, and albumin, respectively.

RESULTS

In the NOR test, rats in the C + V and C + CVF groups spent more time exploring the novel object. SE + V rats explored both objects equally, while SE + CVF rats spent significantly more on the novel object, suggesting a rescue of cognitive performance by CVF. While CVF-mediated C3 depletion did not restore normal protein levels of Psd95 or GFAP in hippocampi of SE + CVF rats, CVF treatment attenuated SE-induced extravasation of albumin, suggesting potential rescue of BBB stability.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings indicate that acute C3 depletion with CVF can attenuate memory deficits that develop during SE-induced epileptogenesis. This finding further suggests that targeting C3 could hold promise in addressing cognitive comorbidities associated with SE and acquired epilepsy.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY

A long-lasting seizure, known as status epilepticus (SE), can raise the chance of having more seizures in the future and can lead to memory problems. While the exact reasons for these issues are not completely known, it is believed that brain inflammation might be involved. In this study, we show that the activation of the body's immune response, especially a part called the C3 component, plays a role in the memory problems that occur after an episode of SE.

Enhanced Prenatal and Postnatal Development Study in Marmoset Monkeys Following Administration of Felzartamab

Felzartamab is a recombinant fully human immunoglobulin G1 anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody under clinical investigation for immune-mediated diseases. In support of felzartamab clinical development, toxicology studies were conducted in marmoset monkeys, which was the most relevant species based on CD38 binding affinity, pharmacologic activity, and target expression. The felzartamab toxicology program included an enhanced prenatal and postnatal development (ePPND) study to identify potential reproductive and postnatal development risks. In this ePPND study, pregnant marmoset monkeys were randomized to receive vehicle (0 mg/kg) or felzartamab at two dose levels (15 mg/kg and 75 mg/kg) twice per week until parturition, and maternal animals and infants were evaluated for 6 months thereafter. Felzartamab exposure was confirmed in maternal animals and infants in both dosing groups. Overall, felzartamab was well tolerated by pregnant animals at the evaluated doses, with no effect on body weight or body weight gain during pregnancy. No felzartamab-related effects on pregnancy loss or stillbirth rate were observed, and litter counts and numbers of liveborn infants were similar between the vehicle and felzartamab groups. Among infants, there were no felzartamab-related malformations or variations in external anatomy or skeletal morphology and no felzartamab-related observations in histopathology, hematologic and immune cell development, or humoral immune response to vaccination. In conclusion, among pregnant marmoset monkeys dosed with felzartamab, the lack of reproductive toxicity and felzartamab-related effects on offspring supports the clinical evaluation of felzartamab in women of childbearing potential and further demonstrates the suitability of the marmoset monkey for ePPND studies.

Xylose utilization promotes Salmonella replication within macrophages and systemic infection in mice

The intracellular pathogen Salmonella can cause systemic diseases via its survival and replication in host macrophages. Xylose is the second most abundant sugar in nature and Salmonella can use xylose as its sole carbon source for growth. However, whether xylose utilization contributes to the pathogenicity and intracellular growth of Salmonella has not yet been determined. In this study, we observed that the xylose concentration in macrophages increased during Salmonella infection. Moreover, there was an increase in expression of Salmonella xylose catabolic genes (xylA and xylB) and the transcriptional regulatory gene of xylose metabolism (xylR) in macrophages, revealing the possibility of using host-accumulated xylose by Salmonella for intracellular growth. Mutation of either xylAB or xylR reduced Salmonella replication in macrophages and attenuated the colonization of mouse systemic loci (e.g. the liver and spleen), indicating that xylose utilization promotes Salmonella replication within macrophages and systemic infection in mice. Moreover, we found that xylose utilization by intracellular Salmonella was activated by the cAMP-CRP complex upon detection of low glucose levels in the infected macrophages. Collectively, these findings reveal that although the available glucose decreases during infection, Salmonella can use xylose, which accumulates in infected macrophages, as an alternative carbon source to promote intracellular replication and virulence.

Weizmannia coagulans BC99 affects valeric acid production via regulating gut microbiota to ameliorate inflammation and oxidative stress responses in Helicobacter pylori mice

Helicobacter pylori is a highly prevalent pathogen in human gastric mucosa epithelial cells with strong colonization ability. Weizmannia coagulans is a kind of active microorganism that is beneficial to the improvement of host gut microbiota balance and can prevent and treat intestinal diseases. We investigated the beneficial effects of W. coagulans BC99 in H. pylori infected mice and measured inflammation response, oxidative stress, and gut microbiota. Results showed that BC99 could alleviate the gastric inflammation, inhibit the increasing of inflammation parameters endotoxin, interleukin-10, transforming growth factor-β, and interferon-γ and oxidative stress myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde, promote the levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis revealed that BC99 reversed the change of gut microbiota by reducing the abundance of Olsenella, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Monoglobus, and increasing the abundance of Tyzzerella. Meanwhile, BC99 caused elevated levels of Ligilactobacillus and Lactobacillus. In view of the beneficial effect of BC99 on the content of short-chain fatty acid, valeric acid with sodium valerate interfered with H. pylori infection in mice found that valeric acid had a good restorative effect of H. pylori infection relating inflammation and oxidative stress responses. These results suggest that W. coagulans BC99 can be used as a potential probiotic to prevent and treat H. pylori infection by regulating the inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut microbiota.

Lnc-MEG8 regulates yak myoblast differentiation via the miR-22-3p/RTL1 axis

BACKGROUND

The yak (Bos grunniens) is essential to the livelihoods of Tibetan people on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau; however, its growth and productivity are constrained by the region's harsh climate and high altitude. Yak skeletal muscle myoblasts, which have evolved to thrive under these challenging conditions, offer a valuable model for investigating muscle development. In this study, we performed transcriptome profiling of yak longissimus dorsi muscle at different growth stages, identifying a key long non-coding RNA, LncRNA-XR_314844 (Lnc-MEG8), with a potential role in muscle development.

RESULTS

We developed a novel technique to isolate high-quality yak myoblasts, enabling detailed analysis of Lnc-MEG8. Our results indicated that Lnc-MEG8's subcellular localization varies during muscle cell growth: it is found in both the nucleus and cytoplasm during proliferation but shifts mainly to the cytoplasm during differentiation. Functional experiments showed that Lnc-MEG8 promotes cell proliferation and inhibits differentiation, while its silencing had the opposite effect. Further analysis revealed that both Lnc-MEG8 and the gene RTL1 share miR-22-3p as a common target. Dual-luciferase assays confirmed miR-22-3p directly targets both Lnc-MEG8 and RTL1 mRNA. Co-transfection of Lnc-MEG8 and a miR-22-3p mimic restored RTL1 expression, highlighting Lnc-MEG8's regulatory role. Lnc-MEG8 also counteracts miR-22-3p's suppression of key muscle genes such as MyF5 and MyoG, facilitating myotube formation.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate that the Lnc-MEG8-miR-22-3p-RTL1 axis plays a crucial role in yak muscle development, providing insights that could advance muscle tissue engineering and enhance yak meat quality.

Sex Difference in Histopathological and Steroidogenesis Metabolism of Zebrafish After Exposure to Spiromesifen

Spiromesifen (SPM) is widely used for orchard mites and white fly control. The ecotoxicological data suggested that SPM is highly toxic to fish, but the information about its toxic effect on zebrafish is still obscure. In this study, adult zebrafish were exposed to SPM for 21 days. The plasma sex steroid hormone levels reflected the ratio of 17β-estradiol (E2) to testosterone (T) (E2/T) was significantly increased at 0.50 μg/L of SPM in male fish (2.4-fold, p = 0.049). Following 21 days' post exposure, distinct pathological changes were noted in gonad, males were more sensitive than female, which showed the interstitial connective tissue hyperplasia and widener in testis at 15 μg/L of SPM. In male fish, the relative percentage of spermatozoa was 13% decreased at 30 μg/L of SPM (p = 0.041). Which suggest SPM potential role in disrupting male gonad development. qRT-PCR results suggest that expression of follicle stimulating hormone receptor (fshr) was significantly down regulated in female zebrafish (0.29 fold of control, p = 0.010). Variable importance of projection (VIP) scores indicate the most important features separate in female and male. The different response of steroid level towards SPM between male and female zebrafish may due to the distinct regulation of key genes related in steroidogenesis and metabolism. This study for the first time connects the biochemical and histological to reveal the adverse effects of SPM on adult zebrafish in a sex dependent manner.

The Protective Effects of Carvacrol Against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity In Vitro and In Vivo

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a remarkable chemotherapeutic agent, however, its adverse effect on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC) is a rising concern. Recent research has identified carvacrol (CAR), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, as a promising natural compound for protecting against DIC. This study aims to investigate the potential cardioprotective effects properties of CAR in vitro and in vivo. The cardioprotective effect of CAR was assessed by pretreating H9c2 cells with non-toxic CAR for 24 h, followed by co-treatment with DOX (10 μM) for an additional 24 h. The cell viability was determined using an MTT assay. For the in vivo study, male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-250 g) were randomly divided into three groups: control, cardiotoxicity (DOX), and treatment (CAR + DOX) groups. CAR (50 mg/kg, BW) was administered orally to the CAR + DOX groups for 14 days. Then, a single dose of DOX (15 mg/kg/i.p, BW) was administered on day 15 for DOX and CAR + DOX groups. The rats were allowed to recover for 3 days before being sacrificed. Our results demonstrated that DOX (10 µM) significantly reduced H9c2 cell viability by 50% (p < 0.0001), and CAR (0.067 µM) protected H9c2 cells from DIC (p = 0.0045). In the rat model, CAR pretreatment effectively mitigated DOX-induced reductions in systolic pressure (p = 0.0007), pulse pressure (p = 0.0213), hypertrophy (p = 0.0049), and cardiac fibrosis (p = 0.0006). However, the pretreatment did not alter the heart function, oxidative stress, and antioxidant enzymes. In conclusion, our results indicate that CAR could potentially serve as an adjuvant to reduce cardiotoxicity by ameliorating myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy.

Metformin effectively alleviates the symptoms of Alzheimer in rats by lowering amyloid β deposition and enhancing the insulin signal

Alzheimer's disease (AD) exhibits distinct biochemical and histopathological attributes, encompassing cellular, neuronal, and oxidative impairment. There is also an abnormal buildup, misfolding and clumping of amyloid β (Aβ). The present study aimed to explore the influence of the antihyperglycemic agent metformin on rats with AD-like symptoms, while also elucidating the intricate relationship between insulin resistance and AD. The rats were categorized into five groups: a control group, a saline-administered group, a metformin-treated group, AD-model rats, and AD-rats treated with a 200 mg/kg dose of metformin. Cognitive impairment was rated using the classical labyrinth test. Moreover, serum biochemical parameters, encompassing glucose levels, Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile, kidney, and liver function, were evaluated. Additionally, oxidative, antioxidant, and neurotransmitter parameters were measured in hippocampus tissues. Also, the Aβ and insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS-2) were measured by immunoblotting. Besides hippocampal histopathology, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and calretinin immunoreactivity were monitored. The study findings disclosed deficits in memory and learning capabilities among AD rats. Furthermore, AD-afflicted rats exhibited heightened glucose levels, elevated HOMA-IR and HbA1c values, alongside compromised liver, and kidney functions. Additionally, an upsurge in oxidative stress coincided with a notable reduction in the antioxidant system and neurotransmitters activities. The levels of Aβ deposition increased, while IRS-2 expression subsided, accompanied by alterations in the hippocampal structure and neuronal damage. These changes were paralleled by an intensification in GFAP reactivity and a detracting in calretinin reactivity. Metformin was altogether able to move forward cognitive execution by means of bringing down oxidative stress and Aβ conglomeration. Furthermore, metformin was able to improve neurotransmitters and insulin signals. AD, glucose impairment, and brain insulin resistance are completely interlinked, and future AD medications may be inspired by diabetic medication.

Sensory neuron LKB1 mediates ovarian and reproductive function

Treatments for reproductive disorders in women consist of hormone replacement therapy, which have negative side effects that impact health, spurring the need to understand new mechanisms to employ new therapeutic strategies. Bidirectional communication between sensory neurons and the organs they innervate is an emerging area of interest in tissue physiology with a relevance in reproductive disorders. We hypothesized that the metabolic activity of sensory neurons has a profound effect on reproductive phenotypes. To investigate this phenomenon, we utilized a murine model with conditional deletion of liver kinase B1 (LKB1), a serine/threonine kinase that regulates cellular metabolism in sensory neurons (Nav1.8cre; LKB1fl/fl). LKB1 deletion in sensory neurons resulted in reduced ovarian innervation from dorsal root ganglia neurons and increased follicular turnover compared to littermate controls. Female mice with this LKB1 deletion had significantly more pups per litter compared to wild-type females. Interestingly, the LKB1 genotype of male breeders had no effect on fertility outcomes, thus indicating a female-specific role of sensory neuron metabolism in fertility. In summary, LKB1 expression in peripheral sensory neurons plays an important role in modulating fertility of female mice via ovarian sensory innervation.

Social defeat stress induces an anxiety-like outcome in male prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster)

Anxiety-related illnesses constitute one of the leading causes of disability across the globe. Consequently, the need for validated preclinical models to uncover the etiology of anxiety phenotypes remains essential. Given the link between social stress experience and the manifestation of anxiogenic-like outcomes, we evaluated whether social defeat stress (SDS) reduces open-space exploratory behavior in prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster). Thus, we exposed adult sexually-naïve male voles to 10 consecutive days of SDS episodes and evaluated responses to the anxiogenic environment of the light/dark box test or the elevated plus-maze, 24 hours later. We found that, when compared to non-stressed controls, SDS-exposed voles displayed longer latency to enter the light compartment of the light/dark box. Similarly, on the elevated plus-maze, SDS-exposed voles displayed decreases in the number of entries into the open arms, while spending more time in the closed arms of the maze. No differences in locomotor activity were noted between the experimental groups. Collectively, these data indicate that chronic SDS exposure induces anxiety-like responses in adult male prairie voles, thus, providing a preclinical model for the study of social stress-induced anxiogenic phenotypes.